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  • 15Youngest age for a learner's permitp. 1-2
  • 24 of 30Correct answers to pass the knowledge testBMV website
  • 70 hoursPractice driving under 21, 10 at nightp. 1-3
  • 6 monthsPermit time before the road test under 21p. 1-3

Step by step

  1. Take driver education if you are under 18

    Applicants under 18 complete an approved driver education course for the permit; from 18 it isn't required. (Maine Driver's License Manual, p. 1-2 to 1-3)

  2. Gather your documents

    Bring two forms of identification and your Social Security number. Up to age 22 you need a birth certificate or passport to prove your date of birth. Under 18, a parent or guardian (or a spouse aged 18 or older) signs your application.

    • Two forms of ID, for example a birth certificate and a Social Security card
    • A birth certificate (certified, with a raised seal or stamp) or passport if you are 22 or younger
    • A signature from a parent or legal guardian if you are under 18

    (Maine Driver's License Manual, p. 1-2, 1-5)

  3. Pass the vision screening and written exam

    Exams are given by appointment at BMV branch offices. Answer at least 24 of the 30 questions correctly; the vision screening is free when you come for the written exam. (Maine BMV: Drivers License Exam)

  4. Practice, then take the road test

    Under 21, hold the permit 6 months and log 70 hours (10 at night) with a licensed driver aged 20 or older. Then mail your driving log to the BMV in Augusta to be scheduled, and bring a registered, inspected car. (Maine Driver's License Manual, p. 1-3 to 1-4)

Fees and the full list of accepted documents change from time to time, so check them on the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV), Department of the Secretary of State website before you go.

Rules while you have a learner's permit

  • Drive only with a licensed driver aged 20 or older who has held a license for 2 years and sits next to you. (Maine Driver's License Manual, p. 1-2)
  • Don't use a mobile phone or handheld electronic device while driving. (Maine Driver's License Manual, p. 1-2)
  • Driving alone on a permit can bring a 30-day suspension. (Maine Driver's License Manual, p. 1-8)
  • Your practice hours count only after the permit is issued, and a parent, stepparent, guardian or spouse certifies them on the BMV's form. (Maine Driver's License Manual, p. 1-3 to 1-4)

What comes next

After the road test, a driver under 18 has 270 days of limits (no phone, no driving midnight–5 a.m., family-only passengers unless a qualified adult rides along), and every new license is provisional: two years if you are under 21, one year from 21. (Maine Driver's License Manual, p. 1-4)

Ready for the knowledge test?Free Maine practice exam: 30 questions, 24 to pass.

This guide is a free learning aid based on the Maine Driver's License Manual (Rev. 4/24), not official advice. Rules, documents and fees can change: always confirm with the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV), Department of the Secretary of State before you go. Page numbers are the ones printed on the handbook pages: section, then page (6-1 is page 1 of section 6); tap one to open the official PDF at that page.